Retrospective analyses to understand how wolf territory density impacts moose quotas, harvest and observation rate

Abstract The ever-growing human population along with the expansion of settlements and land use, and effective hunting methods increasingly influence wildlife populations. Knowledge of management responses to re-establishing large carnivores is important to understand the overall impact of humans on large carnivores and their prey populations. We examined the response of moose ( Alces alces ) harvest, but also population size and composition in relation to wolf ( Canis lupus ) territory density along a latitudinal gradient in two bordering countries in northern Europe. Moose harvest density was negatively related to wolf territory density with model estimates showing that harvest was 35% (Norway) to 39% (Sweden) lower in moose management units (MMUs) with average wolf territory density, compared to MMUs without wolves during the previous five years. The corresponding model estimates for moose observation rate was 21% lower in Sweden and 1% lower in Norway. In both countries, management actions were taken to reduce the total moose mortality (reduced harvest) as well as to maximize productivity in the population (reduced harvest of adult females) in response to increased wolf territory density. Annual changes in quotas were related to fulfilment of last year´s quota and wolf territory density in the previous two years. The annual change in harvest were affected by actual harvest the previous year and by set quotas, showing that harvest followed management plans. Abilities to adjust to new conditions is a key in wildlife management where conflicting societal objectives such as forestry, sustainable ungulate harvest yield, and carnivore conservation should be balanced.